“Star Wars: Episode IX” cast announced

Things are escalating in the galaxy far, far away as news of the new cast for the next chapter in the Star Wars franchise – Episode IX – gets announced.

The late Carrie Fisher has been announced to star, and her appearance comes via previously unseen footage. Billy Dee Williams, who’s now 81, will reprise his role as Lando Calrissian and Richard E Grant will join the cast.

Mark Hamill, who was catapulted to fame by the first Star Wars film in 1977, will return as Luke Skywalker.